BOTANICUM is a captivating audiovisual experience that turns our gaze and our bodies toward the plant kingdom. The work moves between the realities of plants and humans, transporting the viewer into a mythical, futuristic world of human-plants.
“The knowledge of the soil is irrefutable. Whoever it once clings to will be carried by winged microbes down into the spheres of the earth, up into the depths of the heavens.” – Eeva Kilpi
This multidisciplinary dance performance by KATVE [blind spot] Company uniquely combines movement language, absurdity, composed music, sound design, and striking lighting and video art. The piece dives into the relationship between humans and nature, offering visual fireworks, playfulness, and surprises.
Although the work is particularly aimed at young people aged 10–17—the influencers of the future and those at the core of the environmental discussion—its depth and aesthetic world captivate audiences of all ages. After the performance, the audience has the opportunity to participate in a discussion with the performers and the creative team!
“The visuality caresses the eyes: the costumes, videos, and inventive set design support the dancers’ ‘plant essence.’ In Botanicum, there is playfulness and surprise.” – Tiina Suhonen, dance researcher
Choreography, Concept, and Dance: Tanja Illukka, Heidi Masalin
Lighting and Video Design: Pekka Pitkänen
Sound Design: Tuuli Kyttälä
Composition: Olli Havu, Tuuli Kyttälä
Costume Design: Terttu Torkkola
Costume Production: Elina Tuomisto
Box Design and Execution: Lotta Esko
Texts: Karel Čapek, Eeva Kilpi, Sinikka Piippo
Photos: Pekka Pitkänen, Pasi Orrensalo
Production: KATVE [blind spot] Company
Supporters: Finnish Cultural Foundation, Svenska Kulturfonden, Arts Promotion Centre Finland (Taike), Jenny and Antti Wihuri Foundation, City of Helsinki, Vantaa Dance Institute
Premiere: October 1, 2021, Malmitalo, Helsinki
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